Milestone clears path for construction of critical infrastructure to power Northwestern Ontario
Thunder Bay, Oct. 8, 2024 – Hydro One Inc. and nine First Nation partners have reached a significant milestone in the Waasigan Transmission Line project. The Ministry of the Environment, Conservation, and Parks has approved the final Environmental Assessment (EA) Report, paving the way for the construction of this critical infrastructure. Once completed, the project will add 350 megawatts of electricity to Ontario’s northwest region, addressing current and future energy demands.
“This is a monumental milestone for Indigenous communities, customers, businesses, and industry in northwest Ontario,” stated Sonny Karunakaran, Vice President of Strategic Projects and Partnerships at Hydro One. “The Waasigan Transmission Line project is a testament to what we can achieve when we build partnerships before we build infrastructure.”
The Waasigan project, which is divided into two phases, will create new transmission lines to boost the region’s power grid. Phase one involves a double-circuit 230-kilovolt line between Shuniah and Atikokan, targeted for completion by late 2025. Phase two will extend the line to Dryden by 2027, with both phases featuring station enhancements to accommodate the increased power flow.
A Partnership with First Nations
Hydro One is collaborating with Lac des Mille Lacs First Nation and eight other First Nation communities, represented by Gwayakocchigewin Limited Partnership (GLP), which will hold a 50% equity stake in the project. The partnership reflects a commitment to Indigenous inclusion in energy development projects.
Chief Whitecloud of Lac des Mille Lacs First Nation emphasized the importance of this collaboration, saying, “The approval of the environmental assessment is a significant milestone for our communities in the Northwest region. It represents a solid commitment to meaningful collaboration, a respectful application of our traditional knowledge and values, and a new path to sustainable development.”
The GLP First Nation communities involved include Fort William, Eagle Lake, Lac Seul, and Seine River First Nations, among others. Gwayakocchigewin LP President, Daniel Morriseau, shared his pride in the role of Anishinaabe teachings in the project’s development. “We are proud to see that our Anishinaabe teachings, knowledge, and respect for the land guided this environmental assessment. We will continue to work with our partners to develop the project in a good way and look forward to seeing our communities benefit.”
Engagement and Community Feedback
The Waasigan Transmission Line has been shaped by extensive consultation over several years, with input from Indigenous communities, local residents, and businesses. Hydro One will continue engaging with the public ahead of construction, hosting a series of open houses in late October. These events will provide opportunities for community members to voice concerns and learn about the project’s next steps.
Shuniah Mayor Wendy Landry highlighted the importance of consultation, stating, “It’s encouraging to see feedback from our previous rounds of engagement incorporated into the final EA report. Consultation with our community is essential to the planning and design phase of the Waasigan Transmission Line project.”
Atikokan Mayor Rob Ferguson also expressed support for the project’s progression, noting, “We have worked closely with Hydro One over the years to develop plans for the Waasigan Transmission Line. We are looking forward to beginning this next stage of development and seeing it come to life.”
Protecting the Environment
The approval of the Environmental Assessment Report followed a thorough evaluation of more than 1,200 sites. The assessment weighed various factors, including Indigenous values, environmental impacts, and socio-economic considerations. By balancing these elements, the selected route aims to meet the expanding energy needs of the region while minimizing disruption to the natural landscape.
Dryden Mayor Jack Harrison emphasized the importance of the environmental assessment process. “The environmental assessment process is vital to ensuring not only the natural environment is protected, but also the needs of the community are met. With the Ministry’s approval, Hydro One can now move forward with the continued engagement of communities across northwest Ontario.”
Powering the Future
With the EA approval in place, Hydro One is on track to begin construction, providing much-needed energy infrastructure to support growth in Northwestern Ontario. As the project progresses, continued consultation and cooperation with local communities and First Nations will remain a priority.
For more information on the Waasigan Transmission Line and the Environmental Assessment Report, visit Hydro One’s Waasigan page.
